Hey everyone!
I'm coming from a chevy cobalt sport coupe, and I'm lookin to buy an S60 very soon! I am debating between 2 models and years, any help/advice would be awesome. They are all auto but that's all available around me.
06 2.5T FWD 24k $16k
05 2.5T AWD 27k $17

 

I'd spend a few extra $$$ and get the AWD. Both cars have somewhat the same mileage. You won't regret it.

 

I say go with the FWD unless you need AWD for the snow. AWD just adds the potential for maintenece costs if you don't need it. Also, weren't the auto trannys upgraded for '06? I know they were in the R.

A list of options would be nice for better advice too...

 

They both are pretty similarly equipped. They have leather interior with the heated seats, alloy rims, and a sun roof. I live in Western NY, and we can have difficult winters, but for the other 8 months out of the year, AWD wouldn't have much function. Is there an actual real world difference in MPG between the 2 models?

 

the AWD will add extra weight and resistance and youll generally get a 1-2mpg difference between the two.

and I just realized thats a REALLY good price your getting there. I would probably go with the 06 anyways. Its cheaper, and you might have some warranty left on it.

 

You have just answered your own question ... a difficult winter dictates the AWD. I have the AWD and this is my first winter ... I have a step gravel driveway and the tires didn't even break loose going up the driveway in this last storm

 

Agreed, it's why I only buy AWD vehicles anymore.

 

Yea, this dealer doesn't sell Volvo's, so they are REALLY underpriced. Sometimes they sell s60R's without knowing. I guess I'm heading toward the AWD model, just for the added security. What kind of gas mileage can I expect realistically?

 

Not sure that I would agree with these prices being so great. I just bought a 2005 S60 2.5T 36k loaded for only $12k.
It looks and runs like brand-spankin new. Had to drive several states away to get it, but man was it worth it.

 

I get between 19-23 mpg (according to the message center).

 

19-23 wow. My cobalt gets 35 if I drive nicely

 

both are great, i stay away from AWD but to each his own.

 

You're comparing a Volvo to a cobalt ... you got to be kidding me. You can get a moped and do even better. I consistantly get 23mpg.

 

I realize it would be worse, but I didn't think the drop in gas mileage would be that much more
but i guess bigger engine+turbo+1000lbs= ****ty gas mileage

 

I never owned a Volvo up until last month and could not understand why Volvo owners were so loyal ... now I know why ... this is thebest riding, most comfortable, safest, fun cars to drive ... if gas mileage is of major importance, then go buy a Honda Accord (but you won't come close to the comfort IMO).

 

yea, i realize it's going to cost more to own, but i'm jumping up car classes, so i guess i kind of expect this.
I'm still debating between FWD and AWD

 

You live in NY so you know how bad the weather has been. We have a 100' driveway with a 10% grade ... it's covered with crusted snow and clear ice. I couldn't believe this morning I drove out without a tire even breaking loose! Get the AWD or be like my neighbor who has the FWD and has four snows on four rims and changes his wheels twice a season ... I'm willing to give up 1 MPG and avoid that nonsense.

 

How about the S60R AWD... YES! Although the turning radius is Blah! and the low front end lends itself to fender nighmares... I love the handling, power, responsiveness, braking...etc..

 

99k, I'm picturing exactly what you mean about the snow haha. The funny thing is my Cobalt is amazing in the snow! I pass 4x4 trucks all day during a storm. I think the AWD will be worth it to be confident all year around. There is only 1 s60 left at this dealership, and it is an AWD s60...

 

I ended up finding a beautiful black T5 FWD by my house. I saved a 3 hour drive to get an s60. Plus, this one has 16k on it, and I paid $17k for it.